3-Spd.w/OD toploader

[dieselmechanic]

Have a 3 spd. toploader with OD and running it behind a 429 with 3:50 limited slip diff. can this make a decent combination. just want to do some street and highway cruising, Have a performer 460 intake with a 650cfm carb. any help appreciated thanks

[CobraEd]

I never heard of such a thing. Does it look like a traditional Top Loader ???? Can you post a picture?


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[Woodz428]

I've used them behind flatheads and lower torque engines, not so sure that it will last long behind that engine. They are basicly a top loader redesigned with an OD 4th gear, they also have internal changes that are designed for ATF oils instead of the old 80/90W. There were 2 basic types, one with internal shifter and one with external. The ones I have seen all have aluminum cases.

[dieselmechanic]

the tranny I have #RUG CL AE3 came out of I believe a 70's ford van with a big block motor, the housing is cast (heavy) Shift levers on the left side similar to the typical toploader. Dave kee's web sight just called it a fake toploader. If I can get one of my kids to show me how to post a picture i'll get out there. guess i'll need to do more research.

[Anthony]

The OD toploaders are not durable behind higher hp/torque engines. The internal parts are weaker than the standard WR and CR toploaders. Cruising I think it would be OK.

I think a wider ratio Toploader, with a 3.07 rear would be a good compromise for cruising and performance.

[Jerry Clayton]

I used to have one---believe it originally came out of 6 cylinder car---two front bolts were closer together than rear ones

Put a Top off a Jeep on it for a floor shift --had nice first gear ratio

[spl310]

I had one in a 66 mustang one time. I liked the OD! It was behind a small block though. In the end, the tailshaft bushing failed and the thing hand grenaded. Off the line, it was fun as the gearset for 1-3 is basically the same as the mustang 3 speed. I would like one again one day.